June 3

"An holy calling."—2 Timothy 1:9.

MUCH is said in Scripture of the Christian's calling. There is an external and internal call; the one is the general call of the Gospel, the other is the particular call of the Spirit. To the latter of these our text refers. Let us view it

IN ITS NATURE. It includes the work of the Spirit in the soul.

It is extensive. This will be seen by considering from and to what the believer is called; from darkness to light, from bondage to liberty, from impurity to holiness, from poverty to riches, from degradation to honor, from misery to happiness.

It is secret. There is no outward appearance or audible voice, but God speaks to the soul. "The kingdom of God cometh not with observation." The Spirit's operations are silent and secret,—

"His power and glory work within, And break the chains of reigning sin."

It is effectual. The heart of man is shut against God. By the word of the Gospel, he knocks and waits for admittance; but it is not till the power of the Spirit is exerted in bursting asunder the iron bars and bolts which fasten it, that the door flies open, and the King of glory enters in. Contemplate this calling

IN ITS PROPERTY. Why is it designated an holy calling?

Its Author is holy. "He which hath called you is holy." There may be a clear and comprehensive statement of Divine truth, faithful and affectionate appeals; learning may unfold its stores, eloquence may dazzle, and rhetoric may strew her flowers, but all will prove unavailing without the Spirit's influence; he alone can impart the light of wisdom, instil the breath of life, and kindle the flame of love in the soul.

Its designs are holy. The implantation and promotion of holiness is God's end in all his dealings with us, whether providential or gracious. We are called to a holy state, to delight in holy things, to observe holy ordinances, pursue holy objects, and commune with a holy God and holy beings.

Its consummation is holy. It leads to that better country where the atmosphere is pure and untainted; where every thing bears the mark and impress of holiness; the employments, the pleasures, the worship, and the song, are all connected with holiness. View this calling

IN ITS OBLIGATIONS. Has God called us with an holy calling? then there should be

Gratitude. Consider where grace found you, an abject slave, in prison; what it has made you, an adopted child of God; where it will conduct you, to your Father's house above. Raise your altar, approach your Maker, present your sacrifice, commence your song: "Thanks be unto God for his unspeakable gift."

Humility. Grace humbles while it elevates; and the more we are loaded with divine benefits, the deeper should we sink under a sense of our unworthiness. The lowest valleys are most fruitful; on them the gentle dew descends from the surrounding hills, and the boughs that are laden with fruit bend towards the earth. The robe of righteousness must always be connected with the garments of humility.

Consistency. "Walk worthy of the vocation wherewith ye are called." As much has been done for you in a way of grace, much is required of you in a way of evidence. Ever keep in view the end of your calling. Love the ways of holiness, follow the practice of holiness, seek an increase in holiness, and long for the period when you shall be perfect in holiness.

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